What are the definitions of “key to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Plan things to fit or suit people or situations.
Promotions are KEYED TO people's abilities.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “key to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb key to is to plan or arrange things in a way that fits or suits people or situations. It is often used to describe how something is designed or organized to match someone's abilities, needs, or preferences.
What are the different verb forms of “key to”?
| Root Verb | key to |
| Third Person Singular Present | keys to |
| Present Participle | keying to |
| Simple Past | keyed to |
| Past Participle | keyed to |
Example
The training program is keyed to the needs of the employees.
Example
She keys to the students' learning styles when planning her lessons.
Example
The company is keying to market trends to stay competitive.
Example
The event was keyed to the interests of the attendees.
Example
The presentation was keyed to the audience's level of expertise.
What kind of phrasal verb is “key to”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“key to” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The curriculum is keyed to the students' needs.
Example
He keyed the program to the participants' abilities.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“key to” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The curriculum is keyed to the students' needs.
Example
He keyed the program to the participants' abilities.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “key to”?
Essential for gaining knowledge or comprehension of a subject or concept.
Example
Listening carefully is key to understanding the lecture.
Good things to know
Does “key to” have an informal or formal tone?
Key to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as professional or academic settings.
